Unesco Enters Giants Causeway Row

Unesco has called for the proposed development of a £100m golf resort near the Giant's Causeway, to be stopped.

Work is due to start on the controversial project in the autumn, but the agency has raised concerns over the plans.

It is worried over the possible adverse impact the development could have on the area.

The latest opposition follows a failed legal challenge by the National Trust earlier this year.

The proposed golf resort would see up to 360 jobs created at the new 18-hole championship course, which would also include a 120-bedroom hotel and spa, as well as 70 lodges.

In a report from the Unesco, it said: "Given the scale and location of the proposed golf resort development, it is recommended that it should not be permitted as its proposed scale and location in order to avoid adverse impact on the landscape setting and important views of the property, which are part of the property's Outstanding Universal Value."

However, Environment Minister Alex Attwood said the Runkerry application had been subject to "exhaustive, detailed, lengthy and proper interrogation".

He added: "My judgement and decision was subject to legal scrutiny. A judicial review was heard in the High Court. The judgement of the court was issued earlier this year. My decision was upheld by the court which rejected all 21 grounds of challenge made to my decision by the National Trust.

"The planning decision therefore stands. It is lawful. I made the right decision measured against all planning requirements and against the high level of protection for the World Heritage Site given obligations under the Unesco convention."

(JP/CD)